From the Archbishop's DeskJune 2009 I am writing from my desk on the day that the report has been published about the abuse of children and young people in places entrusted to the Catholic Church in Ireland over many years. It can only remind us of all we have ever heard about such events here. It is all utterly terrifying and shattering. The first response may well have to be stunned silence, and then only from that silence words of apology that are not from the lips until they emerge from a very troubled heart. Just as I am very slow to use the word sympathy to someone mourning the one they loved, because I cannot easily feel the love and therefore the pain of others, so too apology may well have to be hesitant and stumbling, because the heart where the Spirit dwells knows it does not know the hurt and pain and long-term consequences of what has been done. After such troubled silence and apology from the depths we shall be impelled by love to recognise, appropriate and be faithful to the measures necessary to ensure such Safeguarding that every baby, child young person, every one who is vulnerable is secure and at peace whenever they are among that fellowship of the Holy Spirit, which is the Body of Christ, that is the Church. Love learnt from Jesus Christ our Lord from whose pierced side and broken heart we receive the Holy Spirit, is this: resolved always and everywhere to work for the good of others whatever the cost is to myself. ‘He loved me and gave himself up for me.’ (Galatians 2:20)
Bishop's Engagements · Archbishop's Letters and Homilies On August 2nd Fr Stephen Pritchard, Pete Jones and Martin Atherton will set off on an intrepid 746 km bike ride to raise money for work with young people in the Archdiocese. The ride will take the ancient pilgrimage route to the renowned shrine of St James the Apostle in the north of Spain. Months of planning and training have gone into the event and people can sponsor the trio by clicking on the arrow. Thank you for your generosity! Make a single Donation to Animate
Message of Pope Benedict XVI Dear Brothers and Sisters, ©2009 Archdiocese of Liverpool |